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They performed ārati, offered jeweled ornaments, and respectfully washed the princes’ feet. Four thrones of different colors were placed, and the four bridegrooms sat upon them.

Beholding Rama’s beauty, Mother Sunaina did not blink even once. She forgot all awareness, could not speak, and found no words to utter.

She stared in amazement without moving, immersed in an ocean of great delight. The colorful queen was dyed in Rama’s form, and tears of love streamed from her eyes.

Seeing his mother-in-law in such a state, Rama wondered within his heart, “What has happened to the queen today?” Yet he felt too shy to ask.

A clever companion understood his thought and spoke sweetly to Rama: “Dear prince, this is all the doing of your virtues; do not hold the slightest doubt within your heart.”

Hearing these words, Sunaina recovered her composure and awoke. Again and again she warded evil from him and kissed his cheeks.

The queen broke a straw before that sweet dark form in reverent self-offering; charmed by Rama’s beauty, she sold herself to him without a price.

Then, joining her hands, the queen spoke to Rama in a very gentle voice: “Rise, dear son, and take your kalevā—whatever your heart desires.”

Hearing this, the four royal darlings rose together with their companions. Filled with fortune and love, Sunaina washed their feet with her own hands.

She seated all the brothers upon high, elaborately fashioned stools. In soft and lovely golden trays she served many kinds of sweets.

The royal sons ate according to their tastes while fans waved before them. The companions understood their preferences and served such dishes that their delight cannot be described.